Corky

Courtney (Corky) LaFountain Jr., of Old Forge, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, April 27, following a brief illness.

He was born in Keene Valley, a son of Courtney and Gloria LaFountain, and was a member of South Lewis High School Class of 1968. He worked hard to raise his family and was successful in many professions. Corky had a lifelong love of fast, loud cars and over the years worked as an auto mechanic at Brussel’s Garage, a Skidoo mechanic for T&R Sports and as a salesman with Family Chevrolet/Davidson and Essenlohr’s. He spent time as a cook at both the Family Buffet and Maple Diner and operated his own restaurant, Corky’s, in Boonville. He worked many years for Morin’s Collision in Thendara, and retired from the Town of Webb, though continued to work summers at the Old Forge Transfer Station.

Corky had a wonderful gift of gab, joke telling, and teaching new tricks to anyone willing to learn. He always greeted people with a smile on his face and a sparkle in his eye; Corky genuinely enjoyed talking with everyone around him. He would pull over or pull in to say hello, catch up and share a laugh whenever possible. He loved being outdoors (in warm weather!,) his special Tuesday lunches at the Front Door Diner, and afternoons with friends on Williams Street.

Traveling with his fiance, Linda, especially visiting family in California and exploring the San Diego area, brought Corky great joy. He also loved a summertime barbeque and, no matter who was hosting, would always take over the grill! In his retirement, he spent a lot of time and care tending his pet turtle, named Tur’le, of course, which he found as a baby. Above all else, Corky’s children and grandchildren were his pride and joy.

Corky is survived by fiancé, Linda Ellison, of Old Forge; children Heather (Bryon) Griffin, Amber LaFountain, and Nathan (Morgan) LaFountain; grandchildren Ashley, Taylor, Jordan and Gaven Griffin, Alexcia LaFountain and Kaidlynn and Dominic LaFountain. He also leaves siblings David (Emily), Mark, Tim, and Kim (William) Coffey. He was predeceased by his parents.

In accordance with his wishes, there will be no formal services.

Corky’s family would like to invite family and friends for a Celebration of Life at 1 p.m., on Sunday, May 21, at the Back Door Bar in Old Forge. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to your local food bank or to the Old Forge Ambulance Corps, 2946 NYS Route 28, Old Forge, NY., 13420.